As you may be aware Housing NSW is introducing changes to the current under-occupancy policy for public housing. These changes do not apply to community housing or Aboriginal Housing Office tenants, however I am providing this information to you in the event you may receive enquiries from providers or community housing tenants.

Currently there are over 17,000 large public housing homes in NSW with three or more bedrooms which are only occupied by single people or couples. As part of the announcement by the Minister in June, new incentives are being introduced to help free up these larger homes for households who may need them.

Effective today, a high priority will be given to under-occupying tenants who are relocating or transferring to a smaller more manageable home. In addition, a Vacant Bedroom Charge will be applied to under-occupying tenants who refuse to move outright, or who choose to continue living in a property that has more bedrooms than they are entitled to after they have been offered alternative accommodation.

Staff of community housing providers participating in Housing Pathways have been provided with information to assist them in understanding these changes.

For more information on the Vacant Bedroom Charge please visit the Housing NSW website.